Lyon. An epidemic is spreading among these animals in the Tête d’Or park: what is happening?

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INFO ACTU LYON. An epidemic of myxomatosis is currently spreading among small mammals in the Tête d'Or park. The City of Lyon has in fact confirmed having recorded “several cases” of this serious, often fatal, disease.

Affecting only rabbits and more rarely hares, it does not present no risk to humans and other animals since it is not transmissible to them. Owners of domestic rabbits must nevertheless be vigilant.

“It is impossible to predict the duration of the epidemic”

“The rabbit population having reached a particularly significant peak at the end of summer, it is logical that there would be a rebound in myxomatosis […] It is impossible to predict the duration of the epidemic, which will die out “naturally” when the population decreases and, with it, the risk of transmission and susceptible (non-immune) animals”, report the services of the City of Lyon on this subject.

According to the Sevetys group of veterinary clinics, this viral disease, transmitted via insects such as mosquitoes or fleascauses in particular skin tumors on the face. Wild rabbits, more specifically wild rabbits like those present in the Tête d'Or park, represent “the reservoir of this disease”.

No walking in harness or leash

Since there is no cure for myxomatosis, it is “strongly recommended” to be vaccinated his pet rabbit against this disease and, while waiting for the situation to settle down at the Tête d'Or park, obviously “strongly recommended” to walk him in a harness or leash in this place.

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